Is WinXP Product Key necessary?

[kram 2.0]

Hey,

This is just a quick question - I do know the rules of this forum, trying to ask though if it is actually necessary to keep the CD Key for Windows XP Operating System after install. I just purchased the OEM, booted, and going to activate it in a few days when I have steady internet. I was wondering if it is necessary to keep it, as I might have misplaced it amongst my gargantuous pile of retail boxes and such . Is the installation process the only place where the CD Key would be needed?


Thanks,
kram

[bigandy]

You should keep that key. Let's just say that for some reason, you need to reformat, and reinstall, you will need that key to complete the process.

[kram 2.0]

Originally Posted by bigandy You should keep that key. Let's just say that for some reason, you need to reformat, and reinstall, you will need that key to complete the process.

Yeah, that was the only worry I had - I'd guess I can dig through my pile of junk, though it is inconvinient as how the CD Key is on the plastic wrapper of the OEM package .

kram

[yellohut]

you can peel that sticker off and stick it on something else.. that's what it's designed to do. You're supposed to stick it to the case, but I have mine stuck to the manual, because I don't plan on keeping this case for long.

[RayH]

Computers is not really about the HARDWARE. It's about software. You get the hardware that drives the software you want to use. Treat software (and their product keys) like gold. Lose them, and you may wind up with nothing! Put the product key (or a copy of it) under the computer. Tape it to the bottom.

[kbkatz]

The best way I have found to keep from losing my CD Keys are to write them on the CD.

[Panama Red]

People who purchase an OEM version of any Operating System are considered to be 'System Builders'. It's my understanding that System Builders are required to attach the Product Key sticker to the case. Now that's a bit of a pain for those of us who like to move cases and other hardware around, but that is the way it's supposed to be done. That's why you'll always find the product key sticker attached to the outside of any Dell, HP, Gateway, etc.